Fin's Fish Guide
The Desfontaines's cichlid (Astatotilapia desfontainii) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
Desfontaines's cichlid is a cichlid (Cichlidae) from North Africa, unusually far from the African lakes. The species has an elongate body; courting males show brighter colours with egg spots on the anal fin. It inhabits oasis waters, springs and slow-flowing waters. As an omnivore it feeds on small invertebrates, insect larvae and plant matter. As a haplochromine cichlid it is a maternal mouthbrooder. Through habitat loss it is considered endangered. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Desfontaines's cichlid?
The Desfontaines's cichlid has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Maternal mouthbrooder of North African oasis waters, unusually far from the great African lakes.
Where does the Desfontaines's cichlid live?
The Desfontaines's cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. North Africa; oasis waters, springs and slow-flowing waters.
How big does the Desfontaines's cichlid get?
The Desfontaines's cichlid grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Desfontaines's cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Desfontaines's cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Desfontaines's cichlid edible?
The Desfontaines's cichlid is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Astatotilapia
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Desfontaines's cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Desfontaines's cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.